According to a recent report, about 90% of adults in the United States have dental problems, and the majority of them have at least one dental crown. While many people choose to get dental crowns, most are not even aware of the components of a front teeth crown. Although less popular, crowns on front teeth not only treat damaged teeth but also provide aesthetically pleasing results.
If you are one of those people who has heard of dental crowns but is unaware of crowns on the front tooth, this article is for you. Let us examine front tooth crowns and understand why they are different from dental crowns.
What is a Dental Crown?
Before understanding the difference between a dental crown and a front teeth crown, let’s first understand dental crowns in general.
A dental crown or crown dental implant is a tooth-shaped “cap” that covers a damaged tooth and is fitted on top of a dental implant. It is part of a restoration procedure and is mainly done to improve the tooth’s appearance and provide structural support.
The dental crown is cemented permanently onto the tooth, restoring its normal functioning and making it look good.
Why are Front Teeth Crowns Different?
One can imagine a dental crown as a protective shield for damaged or weak teeth. These are generally associated with molars but also work excellently for front teeth with trauma or decay. The front teeth crown is like a typical molar crown but with some slight differences.
Front teeth crowns play a pivotal role in restoring the appearance of your smile since they are the center of attraction. These are made of porcelain and are generally thinner than molar crowns to blend with your natural teeth perfectly.
Unlike molar crowns, front teeth crowns are beyond cosmetic enhancement. They are essential for functions including cutting and tearing food and clear speech. The crowns are specifically important when front teeth have major issues, including large cracks, decay, deformities, or previous root canal treatments.
Here are the differentiating factors between normal dental crowns and crowns on front teeth:
Shape and Size
Since front teeth have unique shapes and sizes, the crowns on these teeth are customized to match the natural contours and blend seamlessly with neighboring teeth.
Color
Front teeth are highly visible, and thus, crowns on these teeth need to match the color and translucency of the surrounding teeth. This is mostly done using materials such as porcelain or ceramic.
Bite
Front teeth crowns also have different biting functions. Hence, the crowns are made to fit and function properly.
Material
A crown on the front tooth is typically made of porcelain and ceramic to closely match the natural appearance of teeth.
Light Transmission
Since the front teeth are exposed to more light, the crowns are designed in a way that allows the light to pass through. This helps in creating a natural look.
When Do You Need Front Teeth Crowns?
As mentioned above, front teeth crowns serve different purposes. The most important being that these improve the appearance, strength, and function of front teeth.
Your dentist will recommend a front tooth crown in some special scenarios. These include severe tooth decay, which can create cavities caused by bacterial or acid erosion. While minute cavities can be treated with fillings, larger cavities may require restoration with a dental crown.
In addition, damage to front teeth due to trauma or chipping may also require restoration with a crown.
Additionally, a crown front tooth may be needed if you require a root canal procedure.
Are Crowns on Front Teeth Visible?
Front teeth crowns are designed to perfectly blend with your natural teeth and ensure no noticeable difference. Hence, these crowns are exceptionally thin and measure up to only 2 mm in thickness. This slim texture contributes to their invisibility, especially when compared to molar crowns.
Takeaway
Front teeth crowns differ from molar crowns due to their functionality and aesthetic appearance. While molar crowns are thicker, front teeth crowns are generally thin, measuring up to 2 mm in thickness to strike a resemblance to neighboring teeth. These are not easily visible and provide an excellent means to restore the function of your front teeth.
Consult Us Today at Valley Ridge Dental for Front Teeth Crowns
Whether you are thinking of getting a front teeth crown or a general checkup, Valley Ridge Dental has you covered. Our highly proficient team of dentists can help you navigate your treatment options with a thorough evaluation.
Schedule an appointment with us today!
You can also contact us at (651) 439-0322.
Or visit us at 12425 55th St N Suite B.
